About Osteopathy
Osteopathy is a primary health care service that is available to all ages and genders. Osteopathy focuses on the holistic approach to health care which revolves around the role of the neuro-musculoskeletal system in health and disease.
Osteopathy is a manual form of medicine which recognises the important link between the structure of the body and the way it functions. Osteopaths focus on how the muscles, nerves, skeleton and joints, circulation, connective tissues and internal organs functions as a holistic unit.
Using skilled evaluation, diagnosis and a wide range of hands on techniques, osteopaths are trained to identify and restore important imbalances and disfunctions in your body. This is achieved through treatment by using such techniques as soft tissue massage, passive range of motion, pressure, stretching and manipulation.
As part of the holistic, or ‘whole person’, approach to optimal health, appropriate lifestyle improvements, such as tailored exercise programs, diet and nutritional advise, and emotional well being are also promoted as important factors in treatment.
In Australia, osteopaths are government registered practitioners who complete a minimum of five years’ university training in anatomy, physiology, pathology, pharmacology, nutrition, general medical diagnosis and osteopathic techniques. Osteopaths are primary healthcare practitioners and are trained to recognise conditions which require medical referral. They are also trained to perform standard medical examinations of the musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory and nervous systems.
Osteopathy is covered by most private health funds and the Medicare Enhanced Primary Care scheme. Osteopaths are registered providers for workers’ compensation schemes, motor accident insurers and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs.
Refer associated links:
